Monitor

Samsung Odyssey 3D: Glasses-free 3D gaming monitor

15-Apr-2025
Samsung Odyssey 3D: Glasses-free 3D gaming monitor

By: Dipin Sehdev

Samsung Electronics unveiled its highly anticipated 2025 monitor series, featuring groundbreaking advancements in gaming immersion and professional-grade visual fidelity. The new lineup is spearheaded by the revolutionary Odyssey 3D (G90XF), the stunning Odyssey OLED G8 (G81SF) – boasting an industry-first 4K, 240Hz QD-OLED panel – and the expansive Odyssey G9 (G91F) ultrawide display. Alongside these gaming powerhouses, Samsung also introduced the ViewFinity S8 (S80UD), a large-format 4K monitor designed to maximize productivity for creative professionals.

"Our commitment at Samsung is to continuously push the boundaries of display technology, delivering experiences that truly elevate how users interact with their screens," stated Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. "The 2025 Odyssey and ViewFinity monitors represent a significant leap in innovation, offering unparalleled visual quality, performance, and features that empower gamers to achieve peak immersion and professionals to maximize their creative potential."

Odyssey 3D (G90XF): A New Dimension in Gaming

The Odyssey 3D (Model: G90XF) marks a paradigm shift in gaming, introducing a glasses-free 3D experience on its 27-inch display. This innovative monitor utilizes advanced eye-tracking technology in conjunction with a proprietary lenticular lens array to project a natural-looking, high-definition 3D image directly to the user's eyes. This immersive effect is seamlessly accessible through Samsung's dedicated Reality Hub application.

Key Features:

  • Display Size: 27 inches
  • Panel Type: IPS LCD with Lenticular Lens Array
  • Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) (Half resolution per eye in 3D mode)
  • Refresh Rate: 165Hz
  • Response Time: 1ms (GtG)
  • 3D Technology: Glasses-free 3D via Lenticular Lens and Eye-Tracking
  • 3D Content Support: Native 3D games and AI-powered 2D to 3D video conversion
  • Compatibility: Requires NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 or higher graphics card for 2D to 3D conversion; Samsung Reality Hub application required for compatible games. DRM-protected content is not supported for 3D conversion. HDR video is also not supported for 3D conversion.
  • Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync™ Premium, NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible
  • Additional Features: AI Video Conversion (2D to 3D), Edge Lighting (ambient lighting synchronization), Ergonomic Stand

Samsung is actively collaborating with leading game developers to optimize titles for the Odyssey 3D's unique capabilities. Initial partnerships include Nexon for their upcoming title The First Berserker: Khazan (launched March 28th) and Neowiz for the critically acclaimed Lies of P, with support planned for its upcoming "Overture" DLC slated for release this summer. These collaborations grant developers unprecedented control over 3D effects, allowing for precise and impactful implementation of their creative visions. Samsung has indicated plans to expand these partnerships with more global game studios in the future.

Beyond native 3D gaming, the Odyssey 3D features an intelligent AI video conversion engine. This technology analyzes standard 2D video content and dynamically converts it into a stereoscopic 3D experience. Samsung claims this process ensures consistent 3D effects with reduced eye strain across a wide range of compatible video sources.

The Odyssey 3D doesn't compromise on core gaming performance. Its 4K resolution delivers sharp visuals, while the 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms GtG response time ensure smooth and responsive gameplay. Support for AMD FreeSync™ Premium and NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible further minimizes screen tearing and stuttering, even during fast-paced and graphically demanding sequences.

Adding another layer of immersion, the Edge Lighting feature projects dynamic ambient lighting from beneath the monitor. This lighting synchronizes with the on-screen action, extending the game's environment into the user's physical space and enhancing the overall 3D effect.

Availability: Pre-orders begin today, April 15, 2025, with shipping commencing later in April.

Pricing:

  • United States: $2000 USD 
  • Europe: €2250 EUR
  • United Kingdom: £1900 GBP

Odyssey OLED G8 (G81SF): The Pinnacle of OLED Gaming

The Odyssey OLED G8 (Model: G81SF) takes the exceptional picture quality of OLED technology and elevates it with cutting-edge gaming features. Available in both 27-inch and 32-inch models, the 27-inch variant boasts an industry-leading pixel density of 166 pixels per inch, the highest currently available on a 27-inch display. Notably, the Odyssey OLED G8 is the industry's first 4K monitor with a 240Hz refresh rate.

Key Features (27-inch Model):

  • Display Size: 27 inches
  • Panel Type: QD-OLED (Quantum Dot OLED)
  • Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
  • Refresh Rate: 240Hz
  • Response Time: 0.03ms (GtG)
  • Pixel Density: 166 PPI (Industry Highest for 27-inch)
  • HDR Support: VESA DisplayHDR™ TrueBlack 400
  • Brightness: Typically 250 nits
  • Contrast Ratio: Near-infinite
  • Color Technology: Quantum Dot Technology for enhanced color and contrast
  • Viewing Angle: Wide viewing angles
  • Glare Reduction: UL Certified Glare Free technology
  • Burn-in Protection: Samsung OLED Safeguard+ with Dynamic Cooling System (Pulsating Heat Pipe)
  • Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync™ Premium Pro, NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible
  • Additional Features: Slim Metal Design, Core Lighting+ (ambient lighting), Ergonomic Stand

Key Features (32-inch Model):

  • Display Size: 32 inches
  • Panel Type: QD-OLED (Quantum Dot OLED)
  • Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
  • Refresh Rate: Specific refresh rate for the 32-inch model not explicitly stated, but likely 240Hz to maintain consistency
  • Response Time: 0.03ms (GtG)
  • HDR Support: VESA DisplayHDR™ TrueBlack 400
  • Brightness: Typically 250 nits
  • Contrast Ratio: Near-infinite
  • Color Technology: Quantum Dot Technology for enhanced color and contrast
  • Viewing Angle: Wide viewing angles
  • Glare Reduction: UL Certified Glare Free technology
  • Burn-in Protection: Samsung OLED Safeguard+ with Dynamic Cooling System (Pulsating Heat Pipe)
  • Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync™ Premium Pro, NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible
  • Additional Features: Slim Metal Design, Core Lighting+ (ambient lighting), Ergonomic Stand

The Odyssey OLED G8 leverages the inherent advantages of QD-OLED technology, delivering exceptional detail, vibrant colors, and a superior contrast ratio from virtually any viewing angle. The VESA DisplayHDR™ TrueBlack 400 certification ensures deep blacks and bright highlights, creating a dynamic and immersive visual experience, even at its typical brightness of 250 nits. The UL Certified Glare Free technology minimizes reflections, reducing distractions during intense gaming sessions.

To safeguard the OLED panel against burn-in, Samsung has implemented OLED Safeguard+. This proprietary system utilizes an industry-first Pulsating Heat Pipe design, which dissipates heat five times more effectively than traditional graphite sheets without the need to adjust brightness levels. This innovative cooling solution significantly prolongs the lifespan of the display.

The monitor's gaming prowess is further enhanced by its ultra-fast 240Hz refresh rate and incredibly low 0.03ms GtG response time, resulting in exceptionally smooth and fluid motion. Support for AMD FreeSync™ Premium Pro and NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible eliminates screen tearing, stuttering, and jittering, providing a competitive edge in fast-paced games.

Aesthetically, the Odyssey OLED G8 features a sleek and slim metal design that seamlessly integrates into any gaming setup. Core Lighting+ further enhances the visual experience by projecting ambient lighting that dynamically reacts to the on-screen content. The included ergonomic stand ensures comfortable viewing for extended gaming sessions.

Availability: Pre-orders begin today, April 15, 2025, with shipping commencing later in April.

Pricing (27-inch Model):

  • United States: $1300 USD
  • Europe: €1300 EUR
  • United Kingdom: £1150 GBP

Pricing (32-inch Model): [Pricing for the 32-inch model was not provided in the original article.]

Odyssey G9 (G91F): Immersive Ultrawide Gaming for All

The Odyssey G9 (Model: G91F) aims to bring the immersive experience of ultrawide curved gaming to a broader audience without compromising on performance. This 49-inch monitor features a Dual QHD (5120 x 1440) resolution display with an aggressive 1000R curvature, enveloping the user in a panoramic visual landscape.

Key Features:

  • Display Size: 49 inches
  • Panel Type: VA (Vertical Alignment)
  • Resolution: Dual QHD (5120 x 1440)
  • Curvature: 1000R
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Response Time: 1ms (GtG)
  • HDR Support: VESA DisplayHDR 600, HDR10+ GAMING
  • Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync™ Premium Pro
  • Additional Features: Picture-by-Picture (PBP), Picture-in-Picture (PIP), Auto Source Switch+

The Odyssey G9's expansive 49-inch Dual QHD display and deep 1000R curvature create a truly immersive gaming environment, filling the user's peripheral vision and drawing them deeper into the game world. The 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time ensure smooth and responsive gameplay, crucial for competitive titles. AMD FreeSync™ Premium Pro further enhances the experience by eliminating screen tearing and stuttering.

Visual fidelity is enhanced by VESA DisplayHDR 600 certification, delivering vivid colors and improved clarity. HDR10+ GAMING support optimizes brightness, contrast, and color range specifically for gaming content, resulting in a more dynamic and realistic picture.

Beyond gaming, the Odyssey G9 excels in multitasking. The Picture-by-Picture (PBP) and Picture-in-Picture (PIP) features allow users to simultaneously view content from two different input sources, with flexible size adjustments available in PIP mode. The Auto Source Switch+ feature intelligently detects connected devices and automatically switches to the active input when a device is powered on, streamlining the user experience.

Availability: Pre-orders begin today, April 15, 2025, with shipping commencing later in April.

ViewFinity S8 (S80UD): Maximizing Productivity for Professionals

Complementing the gaming-focused Odyssey lineup is the ViewFinity S8 (Model: S80UD), a 37-inch 4K monitor designed to cater to the needs of creative professionals and productivity-minded users. This is Samsung's largest 16:9 4K monitor to date, offering approximately 34% more screen real estate compared to its predecessor.

Key Features:

  • Display Size: 37 inches
  • Panel Type: IPS (In-Plane Switching)
  • Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • Refresh Rate: 60Hz
  • HDR Support: HDR10
  • Color Support: 1 billion colors
  • Ergonomics: TÜV Rheinland certified Ergonomic Workspace Display, Intelligent Eye Care (TÜV certified)
  • Connectivity: 90W USB-C (for display, data, and charging), KVM Switch support
  • Additional Features: Integrated KVM Switch

The ViewFinity S8's expansive 37-inch 4K display provides professionals with ample screen space for multitasking and detailed visual work. Support for HDR10 and the ability to accurately reproduce 1 billion colors ensures accurate and vibrant color representation, crucial for tasks such as photo and video editing, graphic design, and content creation.

Designed for comfort and efficiency, the ViewFinity S8 has received TÜV Rheinland certification as an Ergonomic Workspace Display. Its Intelligent Eye Care features are also TÜV-certified for reducing eye strain during prolonged use.

Connectivity is streamlined with a 90W USB-C port, which allows for display connection, data transfer, and device charging with a single cable. The integrated KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) switch enables seamless control of multiple connected devices using a single keyboard and mouse setup, enhancing workflow efficiency between work and personal devices.

Conclusion:

With the introduction of the Odyssey 3D, Odyssey OLED G8, Odyssey G9, and ViewFinity S8, Samsung is solidifying its position as a leader in display innovation. These new monitors offer a compelling blend of cutting-edge technology, performance, and design, catering to the diverse needs of gamers and creative professionals alike. The glasses-free 3D technology in the Odyssey 3D represents a bold step forward in immersive gaming, while the industry-first 4K 240Hz QD-OLED panel in the Odyssey OLED G8 sets a new benchmark for visual fidelity and responsiveness. The expanded ultrawide experience of the Odyssey G9 and the productivity-focused features of the ViewFinity S8 further round out a compelling lineup for 2025. We look forward to the reviews and CE Critic Score. 

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